Bird of Paradise
Bird of Paradise,
White Bird of Paradise
Strelitzia heliconia,
S. nicolai
Light Level: High
Water Level: High
Named Strelitzia after Charlotte of Mecklenburg-Streliz, who married King George III to become Queen of England in 1761. The flowers are 12 inches long and have 3 sepals and 3 petals, and resemble birds of paradise on the wing.
The White Bird of Paradise is a large upright plant that can reach 15 feet or more in height. When they mature, they may bloom any time of the year. The name S. nicolai was given in honor of Czar Nicolas of Russia.
Country of Origin
Subtropical South Africa
Maintenance Tips
This plant needs lots of room. It will bloom only when mature.
If the stems of the fronds are creased, they will have to be removed. Be very careful not to let this happen.
If leaves are splitting, the humidity level may be too low. Low humidity will often prevent the new growth from unfurling on its own. The frond will start to unfurl at the base of the leaf. When you notice this, you can help the plant by carefully running your thumbnail or fingernail along the light brown line (seal) that runs the length of the new frond. Take care not to split the edge of the leaf or to pull down on the frond and crease the stem.
These plants do very well in a greenhouse or atrium setting.
The plant will ooze sap which can make the flower quite sticky; this sap can be wiped away carefully. Pull away wilted crests and new ones will pop up from inside the 'beak'.
When cleaning, be careful to support the leaves so they do not split or tear. Also, do not pull down on a frond because this will cause the stem to crease.
Pests and Problems
Mealy bugs, scale.
For more care information visit our comprehensive Indoor Gardening Guide.